Resolution Reality

The final strains of Auld Lang Syne are fading and a fresh, new year is upon us.

For many people, when the calendar rolls over, it's time to take stock, have an honest look at your life, and see if you want to or need to make changes.

Studies say that less than 15% of people who make resolutions actually end up sticking with them.

And I want you to succeed.

So...how DO you have a better chance?

I think enthusiasm counts for a lot. You have to be motivated enough to follow through. If some area of your life makes you miserable, then that discomfort is begging for a change, and you owe it to yourself to make it. If you don't care enough to make a change, then you probably won't make it/stick with it. The saying is true: If you want to, you will find a way. If not, you will find an excuse. Just know that IF you want to, you CAN make it happen.

It takes just as much time to wish as it does to plan. Write out step-by-step plan of action. Seriously, a detailed step-by-step of how the resolution will fit into your daily life.

Share your goals with your supportive friends and family. (The key word there is supportive. You want a helpful cheering squad. No negativity allowed.)

If you're making several changes, it may be better to tackle one at a time. Don't get overwhelmed.

Have patience. If, for example, your goal was to lose twenty pounds, that's not going to happen just because you went to the gym two times last week. But if you track your progress, say, noticing your strength increasing or that you're losing a pound a week, you'll be more likely to stick with it.

Know that you might slip up, and if you do, that's okay. Start fresh the next day. In all things, be kind to yourself.

I took a poll and here are some common resolutions: break a bad habit, take a trip, start standing up for yourself, spend more time with loved ones, de-clutter, be present, learn something new, help others, eat healthy, exercise more, find a new job, make time to relax, get enough sleep, face a fear, and do more of what makes you happy.

SUSAN SCOTT SHELLEY | ROMANCE AUTHOR

susanscottshelley.com is the official website of Susan Scott Shelley. Susan Scott Shelley, The Buffalo Bedlam, The Los Angeles Riptide, and the Philadelphia Frenzy and logo trademarks are the intellectual property of Susan Scott Shelley and may not be used without express written permission.